Standard Bank Group is a global bank with African roots. It is South Africa's largest bank, distinguished by its extensive operations in 17 African countries. Outside the African continent, Standard Bank Group operations span to 13 countries, with an emerging market focus. Our customers benefit from our knowledge and expertise in emerging markets, coupled with our global outlook.

Standard Bank Group is listed on the JSE Limited, share code SBK, and the Namibian Stock Exchange, share code SNB. The group had total assets of over R1 341 billion(about US$202 billion) at 31 December 2010 and employed more than 53 000 (including Liberty) people worldwide. Standard Bank's market capitalisation at 31 December 2010 was R170 billion (about US$26 billion). Click here to view our latest financial results.

The Group has played a central role in the development of the Southern African economy for almost 150 years. It has done this by constantly aligning its presence in the market place with the evolving needs of the region's economies, and delivering relevant banking and financial services.

We organize ourselves as three business units but present ourselves as one. Our three main pillars of business are Personal and Business Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth (Liberty). Across these areas, our staff aspires to provide our customers with bespoke banking solutions. As part of the recent structural re-alignment of our business, we have identified opportunities to leverage off our existing infrastructure and specific country knowledge across emerging markets.

The group upholds high standards of corporate governance and is committed to advancing the principles and practice of sustainable development. Our success and growth over the long term is dependent on making a difference in the communities in which we operate.

The long-term ratings for The Standard Bank of South Africa, the single largestoperating entity within the Standard Bank Group, are Moody's A3, Standard & Poor's BBBpi, and Fitch Ratings BBB+. The South Africa sovereign ratings are: Moody's A3, Standard & Poor's BBB+ and Fitch Ratings BBB+. Click here to read more on credit ratings.

The strategic partnership of the two largest banks in Africa and China, Standard Bank Group and the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC took a 20% stake in Standard Bank Group in 2008), will continue to generate significant cooperation benefits.